How to handle package purchase in appointments

[Raef]

I have a dilemma and hopefully someone in the community can help with this. I have a business where I provide 1:1 sessions for clients. They have the option to purchase a package of 10 sessions. I want the customer to be able to book the session using the Square appointments but they should not be charged for the session. How does one handle this in the appointment app?

As an example, I have a 30 minute session which is listed for $60.00 - if someone has pre-purchased a package of 10 sessions, how would I allow them to book without charging them?

Many thanks. 

[Stacelyn24 · Accepted solution]

Hey there!

You’re in luck—Square actually does have a built-in solution for this now (cue happy dance 🕺💃). If you’re offering 1:1 sessions and want clients to pre-purchase, say, a 10-pack of $60 sessions, but then be able to book without being charged each time—Square’s Packages feature is your new best friend.

Here’s how it works:

1. Go to your Square Dashboard > Appointments > Packages.
   (If you don’t see it yet, make sure you’re using Square Appointments Plus or Premium—it’s only available on paid plans.)

2. Create a Package for “10 x 30-Minute Sessions” and set the total price (e.g., $600). You’ll choose which service(s) the package applies to.

3. When a client purchases the package, Square will automatically track how many sessions they’ve used.

4. When booking online, clients who’ve bought a package will be able to book those sessions without being charged again. Square deducts the session from their package balance. No awkward “wait, didn’t I already pay for this?” convos necessary.

5. You’ll be able to track package usage on the client’s profile too, so you’ll know how many sessions they’ve got left.

🎁 Pro tip: You can even set expiration dates, add contracts to the packages, or allow clients to gift them (hello, future revenue!).

[Raef]

Thanks so much! This is excellent and I am so thankful for your answer. I have set up the packages. I do have one question - does square send them a special link to be able to book sessions from their package? I cant find any information on how this works once someone purchased. Also, where would I go to see the details on the client and what they purchase? Many thanks if you could send me in the right direction to find this information. 

[socialsalon]

Question regarding this. So we have multiple employees. For payroll purposes when they purchase the package will this go under a house account until it is redeemed, like a gift card? Or must it be purchased with the employee it is intended to be redeemed with? Does that make sense?

[socialsalon]

Did you ever find an answer to this question? I’ve been wondering the same thing! 

[Summer2024]

Hi @Raef ! Thanks @Stacelyn24 for providing the great info on packages! 

To answer your other questions, I am going to provide a comprehensive checklist below: 

Viewing Package Information

Check Client Profile

Dashboard →
Customers →
Select Client →
View Profile →
Packages Tab

Here you'll see:

• Package purchase history
• Sessions remaining
• Expiration dates

Booking Process Options

1. Client Booking

   • No automatic special link generated
   • Clients use regular booking link
   • System recognizes package holders

Best Practices

1. Client Communication

   • Send regular booking link
   • Include booking instructions
   • Explain package redemption process

2. Package Tracking

   • Update client notes after each session
   • Monitor remaining sessions
   • Set reminders for expiration

Tips for Management

1. Client Records

   • Keep detailed notes
   • Track usage regularly
   • Set up email templates

2. Booking Setup

   • Create package-specific services
   • Use clear service names
   • Add internal notes

Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!